What to Expect When You're Expecting

We are introduced to Wendy Cooper (Elizabeth Banks) and her husband, Gary (Ben Falcone), as they navigate their lives amidst the chaos of impending parenthood. Wendy, who manages the Breast Choice Boutique, is seen enthusiastically reading a children’s book on breastfeeding to a group of kids and their parents. Just as things seem to flow smoothly, a child disrupts the reading by shouting an obscenity, prompting Gary to chase after him while Wendy reminds her audience to express gratitude to their mothers for breastfeeding. The day takes a turn when Wendy’s phone alerts her that she is ovulating, leading to a brief romantic interlude with Gary.

Meanwhile, we meet Holly (Jennifer Lopez), who is busy at a photo shoot. After a chaotic moment with a baby, Holly is encouraged by a mother to consider having a child of her own, which aligns with her aspirations. The narrative then shifts back to Wendy and Gary as they attend an outdoor screening of “Dirty Dancing.” Over drinks, Wendy suggests they take a break from trying to conceive, which leads to unexpected complications and laughter later in the night.

Enter Marco (Chace Crawford) and Rosie (Anna Kendrick), who have an unresolved history of their own. While they compete in a food-selling challenge at the festival, old sparks reignite, culminating in an intimate moment under the stars after a playful back and forth. Jules Baxter (Cameron Diaz) and her husband, Evan (Matthew Morrison), are also introduced; they are expecting a child, but Evan’s anxiety about the whole process is palpable as he navigates the changes coming his way.

Holly’s journey takes a twist when her husband, Alex (Rodrigo Santoro), expresses concerns about their ability to adopt due to his hesitations, making things tense between them. In another subplot, Wendy discovers she might be pregnant, asynchronously leaving Rosie feeling turmoil about her own unexpected news, which leads to a significant conflict with Marco.

The complexity of their lives deepens as they all face the realities of new parenthood combined with the hilarity and challenges that arise. The scenes address everything from hectic hospital visits to uncomfortable family gatherings, particularly a workout session that spills into concerns about parenting from Ramsey (Dennis Quaid), Gary’s estranged father, who comically brags about his own imminent grandfatherhood.

Tensions come to a head in a series of humorous yet heartfelt exchanges as each couple navigates their distinct path towards parenthood. There are ups and downs, from joyous moments of connection and laughter to arguments reflecting deeper issues. The film artfully balances the stresses of relationships, the essence of friendship, and the unpredictability of family dynamics.

As the plot unfolds, viewers witness life-altering decisions being made, culminating in all the couples facing their biggest challenge yet—labor and delivery. The chaos intensifies at the hospital with each character’s unique birth experience, each filled with laughter and tears, highlighting the unpredictability of welcoming new life into this world.

In the end, despite their separate struggles, all the couples find a common ground as they embrace their newborns, suggesting that while the journey to parenthood can be messy and complicated, the rewards of family and love are immeasurable, culminating in a heartwarming conclusion where everyone finds joy in their new roles as parents.

Last Updated: October 27, 2024 at 16:43